Why Top Marketing Talent Is Hesitant to Apply

And How Companies Can Win Them Over

Does seeing the number of applicants on a job listing put you off applying?

If so, you're not alone. In a recent poll, 47% of respondents admitted that once a job post reaches the 200+ applicants mark, they’re discouraged from throwing their hat in the ring. That’s a huge pool of untapped talent—highly skilled marketers who are opting out, not because they lack experience, but because they assume their application will get lost in a sea of CVs.

The Disheartening Job Search Process

Every day, I speak to talented marketers looking for their next opportunity, and one thing is clear: the job search process is wearing people down.

One conversation that stood out was with a senior marketing executive who now approaches job applications with the mindset of expecting not to hear back. If they do, it's a pleasant surprise—less stressful, better for their mental health, and a more realistic approach in today’s ultra-competitive market.

And this isn't an isolated sentiment. Research by Indeed found that 52% of job seekers say they never hear back after submitting an application. Even more concerning, LinkedIn reports that for some competitive roles, applicants have only a 2% chance of being selected for an interview. That’s enough to make even the most ambitious candidates rethink their approach.

Why Companies Need to Rethink Their Hiring Strategy

For companies relying purely on job ads to fill positions, these stats should be a wake-up call. If your listing is racking up hundreds of applicants, yet the right talent still feels out of reach, it’s time to ask: Are we missing out on top-tier candidates who aren’t even applying?

This is where a strong recruitment strategy, and the right recruiter, makes all the difference.

The Benefits of Investing in a Specialist Recruiter

Hiring managers, I get it. You’re looking to save costs. The market is tough, and budget constraints are real. But cutting corners on recruitment often costs more in the long run—in wasted time, resources, and the risk of making a bad hire.

A dedicated recruiter can:

✔️ Save you time – No more sifting through hundreds of applications.

✔️ Reduce the workload on internal teams – Less manual screening, more focus on strategic work.

✔️ Improve quality of hire – Directly engaging with top-tier, passive talent who aren't applying online.

✔️ Enhance your employer brand – A streamlined, positive hiring process means a better candidate experience.

✔️ Increase long-term retention – Matching the right people to the right roles leads to better engagement and longevity.

Tapping into the Hidden Talent Pool

Many of the best marketers aren’t actively applying for roles because they’re disheartened by the process. But that doesn’t mean they’re not open to the right opportunity. A 2023 LinkedIn study found that 70% of the global workforce is passive talent—not actively job-hunting, but open to discussions if approached the right way.

So, what’s the takeaway? If you’re relying solely on job ads, you’re only accessing 30% of the available talent.

By working with a recruiter who has direct access to this passive market, companies can break free from the recruitment rollercoaster and reach high-calibre candidates who aren’t getting lost in a pile of applications.

Final Thoughts

If you're hiring, now is the time to rethink your approach. The best candidates might not be in your inbox—but they’re out there. And with the right recruitment strategy, they could be on your team.

Interested in connecting with untapped marketing talent? Let’s chat. New Chapter Talent is here to help you find the best, without the headache.

Contact Lucy

Need help finding your next marketing role? We’re here to connect top talent with the right opportunities. At New Chapter Talent, we understand the marketing landscape and can guide you towards the roles that best fit your skills and aspirations - get in touch with us today! Feel free to contact Lucy...

✉️ lucy@newchaptertalent.com.au

📞 +61 416 153 144

𝐍𝐞𝐰 𝐓𝐚𝐥𝐞𝐧𝐭
𝑵𝒆𝒘 𝑺𝒕𝒂𝒓𝒕
𝐍𝐞𝐰 𝐂𝐡𝐚𝐩𝐭𝐞𝐫

Or connect with me ~ Lucy on LinkedIn ~ as I'll share all the insights on recruitment you could ask for! For more updates, career tips, and job opportunities, follow New Chapter Talent on LinkedIn.

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What Problems Do You Solve? Why Every Marketer Should Know the Answer

By Lucy Bolan • October 30, 2025

Learn how to confidently answer “What problems do you solve?” in interviews. Discover how to showcase your marketing impact with New Chapter Talent.

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The Rise of the Generalist Marketer: Why Range Is the New Superpower in Marketing

By Lucy Bolan • October 14, 2025

At New Chapter Talent , we get to connect with some of the most inspiring marketing leaders across Australia and New Zealand — and a common theme keeps emerging: the quiet power of the generalist marketer . It came up again at our recent New Chapter: CMO Collective Club lunch , where several CMOs shared their love for the book Range by David Epstein. In a world that often celebrates specialisation — the data gurus, the brand purists, the performance pros — these marketers reminded us why having range is something to be proud of. The power of the generalist marketer Generalist marketers are the ultimate connectors. They see the big picture — not just the campaign, but the entire ecosystem. They bridge brand and performance, data and creativity, strategy and execution. In today’s fast-paced marketing landscape, where roles and technologies evolve constantly, that adaptability is gold. The ability to zoom out and see how it all fits together is what makes generalists invaluable to teams and organisations alike. Here’s what makes generalist marketers truly shine: They see across the entire customer journey, from awareness to retention. They bring context, connecting insights from different disciplines. They lead cross-functional teams with empathy and perspective. They can pivot quickly when business priorities or market conditions change. Why generalists thrive in modern marketing In Range, David Epstein explores how generalists often outperform specialists in complex, unpredictable environments — precisely the kind of environment marketers operate in today. Epstein’s research spans fields from sport to science to business, showing that early specialisation isn’t always the key to success. Instead, those who explore widely, draw from diverse experiences, and learn to connect ideas across disciplines are often the ones who thrive when faced with change. It’s a book that challenges the “10,000-hour rule” popularised by Malcolm Gladwell , arguing instead that breadth of experience leads to better problem-solving and innovation. For marketers navigating evolving technologies, shifting customer behaviour, and constant transformation, that insight couldn’t be more relevant. The future belongs to the adaptable The future of marketing leadership isn’t just about expertise in one domain. It’s about connection, adaptability, and curiosity . It’s about understanding how everything from brand storytelling to customer data, AI, and CX fits together to drive growth. So here’s to the curious, the adaptable, the connector-marketers who zoom out and dive in — the ones shaping what modern marketing leadership really looks like. And if you haven’t read it yet, grab a copy of Range by David Epstein . It’s a brilliant reminder that being a generalist isn’t a weakness — it’s a superpower . Contact Lucy Looking for career advice? Get in touch with Lucy... ✉️ lucy@newchaptertalent.com.au 📞 +61 416 153 144 𝐍𝐞𝐰 𝐓𝐚𝐥𝐞𝐧𝐭 𝑵𝒆𝒘 𝑺𝒕𝒂𝒓𝒕 𝐍𝐞𝐰 𝐂𝐡𝐚𝐩𝐭𝐞𝐫 Or connect with me ~ Lucy on LinkedIn ~ as I'll share all the insights on recruitment you could ask for! For more updates, career tips, and job opportunities , follow New Chapter Talent on LinkedIn . New Chapter Talent – Your specialist partner in: Marketing Jobs | Digital Marketing Jobs | eCommerce Jobs | CRM Jobs | CX Jobs | Product Jobs | Brand Jobs | Creative Jobs | Communications Jobs | Category Jobs | Executive Marketing Roles

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Building Community for Marketers: The Launch of the New Chapter: Marketing Collective Club

By Lucy Bolan • October 10, 2025

The New Chapter: Marketing Collective Club officially kicked off this month — and what a launch it was! Our inaugural lunch brought together 20+ brilliant marketing leaders from across Melbourne to connect, share ideas, and spark meaningful conversations. The room buzzed with energy (and a few new LinkedIn connections too), proving one thing loud and clear — marketers are craving more opportunities to connect in person. Why We Started the Marketing Collective Club In today’s fast-paced marketing world, the role of the modern marketing leader is constantly evolving. From brand and digital transformation to data-driven strategy and customer experience, there’s a growing need for community-led learning and collaboration . That’s exactly why we launched the New Chapter: Marketing Collective Club — a space designed exclusively for CMOs and Heads of Marketing , whether you’re employed or fractional, to come together, learn from each other, share experiences , and build meaningful professional relationships. Key Takeaways from the First Event Our first event didn’t just bring people together — it reminded us why community matters. Here are a few highlights from the launch: Marketers want more connection — there’s real enthusiasm for face-to-face interaction. Lifelong learning is key — leaders are hungry to grow, evolve, and stay ahead of the curve. Collaboration beats competition — sharing insights and challenges makes us all stronger. It was truly inspiring to be surrounded by passionate, purpose-driven marketing professionals , each bringing unique perspectives to the table. What’s Next for the Marketing Collective Club The Marketing Collective Club will meet monthly on the second Thursday of each month, with each event offering something new — from thought-provoking discussions to interactive networking formats (yes, speed networking may be on the cards next time! 😉). Next event: Thursday, 13th November 2025 Venue: The Duke of Wellington – Russell Room, 146 Flinders Street, Melbourne Tickets: $69 per person (+ booking fees) Bookings are already rolling in , so if you’re keen to join, grab your ticket via the group link before spots fill up. Why You Should Join If you’re a marketing leader in Australia looking to: Build your professional network Learn from other CMOs and Heads of Marketing Stay ahead of industry trends Be part of a supportive, collaborative community Then the New Chapter: Marketing Collective Club is the place for you. It’s more than just a networking group — it’s a community built on shared experiences, learning, and authentic connection . Get Involved Want to be part of the next event or learn more about joining the club? Reach out to Lucy Bolan for details: 📩 lucy@newchaptertalent.com.au 📞 +61 416 153 144 About New Chapter Talent At New Chapter Talent, we’re passionate about connecting, supporting, and elevating marketing talent across Australia and New Zealand. From recruitment to community initiatives like the Marketing Collective Club, we’re here to help marketers grow — professionally and personally. New Chapter Talent – Your specialist partner in: Marketing Jobs | Digital Marketing Jobs | eCommerce Jobs | CRM Jobs | CX Jobs | Product Jobs | Brand Jobs | Creative Jobs | Communications Jobs | Category Jobs | Executive Marketing Roles

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